Yes! Medellin is a safe place to visit. Its crime and homicide rate (29 per 100,000) has dropped well below many major US and international cities. Police and military presence is very obvious all over the city. All Banks, shopping malls and buildings have private armed security guards. Cars are searched and "sniffed" by dogs before entering car parks. All clubs and discos have security personnel and most people are frisked, purses searched etc.

In areas like Poblado and surrounding areas, you are safe to walk around day and night. You may enter El Centro during the day but do not stay there after dark. Even the locals avoid it.

The majority of the crime and homicides occur in the barrios, rural areas and in El Centro at night. Many of the homicides are over drug turf issues or inter family disputes.

Be a smart Medellin tourist and do not wear expensive jewelery or watches. Do not flash large sums of cash. Do not carry unnecessary credit cards (only what you need for cash withdrawls or to pay bills). Call a taxi company rather than taking one on the street.

Be mindful of your surroundings or anyone unsavory looking that is following you. Duck into a store or restaurant if you feel uncomfortable.

If you are concerned, you may want to consider a guide or translator to show you around the city and keep you out of any bad areas.

These same safety and security tips could be considered for Washington DC., New Orleans, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Rio, Caracas or London.